What Happens When an Oil Spill Occurs?
Large oil spills are not a common occurrence. So, when a tanker runs aground or collides with another vessel and releases its cargo to the sea, it’s often major news — especially when it occurs near land. The images in this interactive activity from McDougal Littell/TERC show major oil spills and the techniques and equipment used to limit damage to coastal and other affected environments. Simulations reveal how the effects of an oil spill are influenced by variables such as the nature of the coastline, weather, and the type of oil spilled.
